Gaming machine pedal

ABSTRACT

A gaming machine, such as a slot machine, includes a second set of controls for operation of the machine. Foot pedals allow the user to operate the game while eating and drinking, and minimizing the need to touch the gaming machine with the user&#39;s hands and minimize user fatigue. Buttons or pedals are located near the user&#39;s feet where they are capable of operating the gaming machine.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to gaming machine, such as a slot machine or video poker machine, having a foot pedal for controlling the play of the game. Slot machines and video poker are popular attractions in casinos and gambling sites. Many customers spend hours playing the games.

Traditional pull arms for the “one-armed-bandits” are usually provided, but they are not necessary, as modern games allow operation of the game by pushing a button. The need for coins has been similarly eliminated in machines using card-type gaming devices.

The operation of these games is typically achieved by a small number of buttons. These buttons are usually large size to allow easy control of the game. When playing the game for long periods of time, the play can become tiresome in having to reach up to push the buttons over and over.

Casinos often have beverage service at the gaming sites to allow the user to continue play and get a drink. The user needs to operate the game with one hand and hold a drink with the other. Food service may also be provided, but play of the game would be delayed while the user needs to use both hands to eat.

With many users operating the gaming machines, it is often necessary for people to wipe down the buttons to avoid contact with dirt or germs on the machines.

The present invention provides a set of foot pedals or buttons to allow operation of the gaming machine with the user's foot to make an atmosphere that is more friendly to long-term gaming machine users. While it may provide little change in the operation and play of the game, it provides added comfort and features that will help a gaming site attract customers.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is sketch of a prior art gaming machine.

FIG. 2 is a sketch of a gaming machine similar to that in FIG. 1, but having foot pedal controllers.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a gaming machine embodiment of the invention having foot pedal controllers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As shown in FIG. 3, a gaming machine may have foot pedal controllers 1 that allow the user to play the gaming machine with their feet. Foot pedals 1 would be able to provide all of the game controls, or optionally, selective game play features that are commonly used.

Existing controller buttons can be adapted for use as foot controllers. Stronger construction may be desirable for the extra pressure from the user's feet.

It may be preferred to place the foot pedals on the ground, or slightly elevated off the ground to make their usage easier. It also may be preferred to have the foot pedal controllers located under an overhang for protection against accidental engagement. 

1. A gaming machine having a plurality of upper controls for operation by a user's hands, wherein a plurality of redundant controls are provided for operation by the user's feet.
 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is a slot machine.
 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine includes a cabinet having an overhang, such that the plurality of redundant controls are located under the overhang to prevent undesired engagement of the controls.
 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine may be operated by both the plurality of upper controls and the redundant controls.
 5. A slot machine comprising a display, a cabinet, a plurality of controls for operation by a user's hands, and a plurality of controls for operation by a user's feet.
 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the gaming machine may be operated by both the plurality of controls for operation by a user's hands, and the plurality of controls for operation by a user's feet. 